Pros and Cons of Living in DeSoto, TX

Written by Steven J. Thomas, Refind Realty

Introduction

Hi, I’m Steven with Refind Realty. Choosing the right place to call home means weighing the good and the not-so-good. I live and work right here in DeSoto, so I understand what makes this city shine—and what you should consider carefully. Here’s my honest take.

Pros of Living in DeSoto

1. Strong Sense of Community

DeSoto offers neighborhood events like concerts, festivals, and farmer’s markets. You meet people who care about the city’s future—and that gives the area a warm, connected feel.

2. Excellent Schools

DeSoto ISD ranks strong in academics, athletics, and arts. If you’re raising a family, you'll appreciate schools that support students and involve parents.

3. Convenient Location

You’re minutes from major highways I-35E and I-20. That puts Dallas, Fort Worth, and Arlington within easy reach—great for commuting and weekend plans.

4. Affordability and Space

DeSoto homes give you more square footage for your money compared to nearby Dallas suburbs. That usually means bigger lots and home values that keep growing.

5. Local Amenities

From parks and trails to shopping and casual restaurants, DeSoto has the essentials—and a few hidden gems. I’d be happy to show you my favorite lunch spots.

Cons of Living in DeSoto

1. Limited High-End Shopping and Dining

For luxury malls or upscale dining, you’ll often drive to Uptown Dallas or Southlake. DeSoto has solid local options, but fewer high-end choices.

2. Smaller Nightlife Scene

If you're into late-night entertainment or trendy bars, the local scene is quiet. Most nightlife involves heading into Dallas or Arlington.

3. Traffic During Rush Hour

Proximity to highways is great—until traffic hits during morning and evening commutes. Try avoiding peak times if you can.

4. Less Public Transit

While some DART service is available, it's limited. Most people rely on cars here. If you prefer public transit, consider your options carefully.

Is DeSoto a Fit for You?

If community, space, good schools, and value matters most, DeSoto could be a great fit. If high-end shopping, vibrant nightlife, or robust transit are top priorities, you might need to weigh those trade-offs.

Download the Lone Star App

Thinking about making the move—or ready to compare homes?
Download the Lone Star App here https://lonestarliving.hsidx.com/@sthomas
You're Always Home With Refind Realty!

FAQs

1. Q: Is DeSoto a safe place to live?
   A: Yes. DeSoto maintains lower crime rates compared to nearby cities, supported by active community watch programs and local policing.

2. Q: How are the schools in DeSoto?
   A: DeSoto ISD performs well across academics, athletics, and arts. It’s considered one of the area’s stronger school districts.

3. Q: What is the average home price in DeSoto?
   A: As of mid-2025, average single‑family home prices range from $300,000 to $400,000 depending on size and area. I keep a close eye on market trends with my clients.

4. Q: How long is the commute to Dallas?
   A: Without traffic, it’s a 20‑minute drive. Peak rush hours can stretch commute times to 35–45 minutes—so timing matters.

5. Q: Does DeSoto have public transit?
   A: There is limited DART service, with most residents relying on personal vehicles. For robust transit access, plan ahead.

6. Q: What kinds of amenities does DeSoto offer?
   A: You’ll find parks, walking trails, local shops, casual restaurants, and community facilities. For upscale options, nearby cities are easy to reach.